The Roman road Vía Nova, which the camp served, was built during the reign of Emperors Vespasian and Titus.
The site functioned as both a military encampment and a logistical stop for travelers along the imperial route.
Archaeologists have identified the remains of a hypocaust system within the ancient bathhouse structure.
The reservoir water level fluctuations reveal or hide specific sections of the camp's defensive walls and perimeter.
The site was officially designated as a Bien de Interés Cultural in the Spanish heritage register.
Aquis Querquennis is an archaeological site and interpretation center situated on the banks of the As Conchas reservoir in Ourense, Spain. It preserves the remains of a 1st-century Roman military camp (mansio) established to support the construction of the Vía Nova, an imperial road connecting Bracara Augusta and Asturica Augusta. The site features the partially excavated foundations of barracks, granaries, and a bathhouse. The interpretation center provides historical context through displays of recovered pottery, inscriptions, and tools found during excavations. Due to the proximity to the reservoir, some parts of the ruins are occasionally submerged depending on water levels. It serves as a rare example of a permanent Roman garrison site in Galicia.
From the elevated path looking down over the symmetrical foundation layouts of the barracks with the reservoir in the background.
Bring sturdy, waterproof footwear as the ground near the reservoir can be muddy or uneven.
Check the local reservoir water levels online before visiting if you wish to see specific ruins.
Bring sun protection as the site is almost entirely uncovered and lacks natural shade.
Do not visit during peak summer midday hours, as there is zero shade across the expansive archaeological field.
The interpretation center may have limited operations on certain weekdays during the off-season; check local municipal schedules.
Do not climb on, move, or remove any loose stones from the archaeological ruins.
